Commuters Can Soon Pay for MBTA Parking Online

A new service offered by the state is looking to add convenience to the payment process.

Those who often find themselves rushing to make the train in the morning with scant time to insert parking money into a drop box, the MBTA is looking to make things a little easier.

Beginning July 23 commuters will have the opportunity to log onto their laptops and smart phones after boarding and pay for the spots in which they just parked their vehicles. Those without access to the internet on the train can also use a regular cell phone by calling a special number.

"I am pleased to see the use of technology by the MBTA for parking fees," said State Representative Jay Barrows after the plan was unveiled this week. "It will not only save time for the daily commuter, but it will also be a more efficient manner for the MBTA to collect the parking fees."

To become eligible for the service, users must log on to MBTA.parkmobile.com and register for a free account. Once activated, the account will be available 24 hours a day.

In addition to logging into the site, smart phone users can also download a special mobile application, which will be made available shortly. Each MBTA parking lot will also contain a sign with a designated phone number to call; calling that number will also allow for parking payment.

"This streamlined method of paying for parking is great for commuters who will now save time as they board the trains," said State Senator Richard Ross.

The MBTA currently employees 51,000 parking spaces in 150 separate locations. According to 2008 figures, over 8 million vehicles were parked in a garage or lot owned by the MBTA in one year.

The new payment system will be implemented at the 70 MBTA owned lots that currently house cash drop boxes before expanding to lots not owned by the MBTA. The daily parking rate for Needham's MBTA lots is $4.

"It is my hope that we can use the savings and reduce the high cost of parking which will only increase ridership and reduce traffic congestion," Barrows said.

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